What is the Difference Between Used & Certified Pre-Owned?

You may have heard that all certified pre-owned cars are used, but not all used vehicles are Savvy Certified. So, what is the difference between used & certified pre-owned (CPO) vehicles? We’re glad you asked. Both models offer tons of value for intelligent shoppers, but you might find that one suits your budget and needs better than the other! Compare CPO vs. used models with AutoSavvy, and get one step closer to your next car!

CPO vs. Used: Why Buy Used?

Let’s start with the broadest category: used cars. A used car is a vehicle with a previous owner. The car may have had one owner or several. That means that used cars can vary quite a bit in terms of make, model, year, mileage, and more. Because these models have been through most of their depreciation, the savings are passed onto you. You can find cars priced $15k and under or even $10k and under! Here are a few other considerations about used vehicles:

• Used cars are not required to be inspected before sale, which is why buying on the private market can be risky. But at dealerships like AutoSavvy, we disclose everything before the sale. You’ll find everything from luxury models to liquidated models, so there are no surprises.
• Some drivers love a project like our as is models. Fixer-uppers can be a fun way to sharpen your skills while getting a great deal, but it’s essential to factor the costs of repairs into your budget!
• Mileage was once a considerable factor in the used car shopping experience, but modern cars are more durable than ever. A vehicle with 100,000 miles may have plenty of life in it. Many cars can last well over 200,000 miles!

CPO vs. Used: Why Buy a CPO Car?

Certified pre-owned (CPO) vehicles have had previous owners but have also been inspected thoroughly to ensure quality. If you have doubts about buying used, a CPO might be an excellent option for extra peace of mind! Our Savvy Certified models are the gold standard of used models, carrying additional guarantees that you won’t find elsewhere – including: 

• Recent model year
• Low mileage
• Multi-point inspection
• 5-Year / 100,000 Mile Limited Powertrain Warranty

Shop CPO vs. Used at AutoSavvy

We’ve gone through the basics of “What is the difference between used and certified pre-owned?” But there’s plenty more to explore at AutoSavvy! Contact us with your questions about the pre-owned vehicle market and schedule a test drive!